Football: East Thurrock assistant manager quits

THE ASSISTANT manager of East Thurrock United has decided to step-down from his position at the Vanarama National League South club.

The manager of East Thurrock United, John Coventry said:

“Just a few words letting everybody know that there will be at least one departure and the end of this season.

Unfortunately my assistant manager Jay Devereux (Devs) has made the decision to take a break from football.

Devs has a young family and wants to spend more time and especially weekends with his wife and children.

Obviously I’m dissapointed to lose not only someone that has assisted me brilliantly over the last 7 years but also a good friend.

In 2009 and 2010 we had made playoffs in the Ryman division one,but losing in the semi-finals on both occasions.That summer I decided to bring someone else onto our staff, I wanted someone who would provide something different and could get that bit extra out of players.

Well that person was Devs and he added exactly what I had hoped and what we would need to go that bit further in the league.

In 2011 we were crowned champions and promoted to the Ryman premier division.

That was the start of the success that included fantastic FA cup, FA trophy runs, Cup finals, Playoff semi finals and finals and our 2nd promotion in 6 seasons.

This season has probably given us the biggest satisfaction in competing in the National League South and securing our place in the division for the 2017-18 season.

Over our time of working together it became more than a manager and assistant manager situation, we became a team that delivered the best times in East Thurrock FC history.

Finally I would like to thank not only Devs, but also his wife Nat and children Ellis and Mae for being understanding throughout the last few years.

“On Saturday April 29th after our last game at home to Wealdstone we will be having a drink at the football club, so if any ex players fancy popping in for a drink that would be great”.